The Road from Manuscript to Published Book
We believe you should never have to wonder what comes next. Here is every step of the journey, laid out so you can see exactly where you are going.
Here is Exactly What Happens
We Have Done This Before. Many Times.
Over nearly a decade, we have guided authors through the publishing process from first conversation to finished book, again and again. We have seen every fear, every obstacle, and every breakthrough. What we have learned is this: the authors who feel most confident are the ones who know what to expect.
That is why we created our publishing roadmap. It is not just a process. It is a promise that you will never be left wondering what happens next.
Let Us Tell Your Story
Ready to start the journey? Let’s talk about where you are and map out where you’re going.
Your Journey, Step by Step
Here is what happens at each of the 11 steps we walk through together. We are with you for all of it.
Step 1 – Dream and Design [Two Sisters and Author]
This is where it all begins. We sit down together on a Zoom vision call and plan your book from the ground up. Every decision we make here reflects who you are and what you are trying to say.
- Cover ideas and interior style
- Hardcover jacket options
- Photos, fonts, colors, branding, and more
Step 2 – Publishing Foundation [Two Sisters Action]
While you focus on your story, we are building the infrastructure behind the scenes that allows your book to exist as a professional product in the global marketplace.
- Setting up your IngramSpark titles for each format
- ISBNs and metadata
- Your categories, bio, and book description
- Retail platform setup and algorithms
Step 3 – Professional Editing [Author Action]
Your manuscript goes through two full rounds of editing, and you are an active part of the process every step of the way. We review together. You ask questions. Nothing moves forward until you approve it.
- Two full rounds of professional editing
- You review all edits
- Questions answered throughout
- Final manuscript approved by you
Step 4 – Interior Design [Two Sisters Action]
We typeset and format the interior of your book, the pages your readers will actually read. We send you sample pages for approval before we finalize anything.
- Typesetting and formatting the interior
- Sample pages for your review and approval
- Page numbers, chapter headings, fonts, and layout
- 3 to 6 weeks to complete
Step 5 – Proof Cycle [Two Sisters and Author]
We are perfectionists, and we think you should be too. The proof cycle is iterative. We go back and forth until every detail is exactly right. Your book does not go to print until you say it is perfect.
- Proof 1: you and our team proofread together
- You send us your list of specific changes
- Corrections are made and Proof 2 is issued
- We repeat until you approve the final proof
Step 6 – Cover Design [Two Sisters Action]
Your cover is the first thing a reader sees, and we take it seriously. We design a stunning, professional cover that represents your book across all print and digital retail environments, then hand it to you for approval.
- Front, back, spine, and barcode
- Back cover copy
- You review and approve
Step 7 – Pre-Order Launch [Major Milestone]
Before your book is even in print, it goes live. Readers can find it, order it, and start spreading the word. This is the moment the momentum begins.
- Your book goes live in our online bookstore
- We provide a QR code and pre-order link
- Time to start promoting!
Step 8 – Global Upload [Two Sisters Action]
We upload your finalized files to IngramSpark, the world’s largest book distribution network, and we verify every detail before enabling global distribution.
- Files uploaded to IngramSpark
- PDF proof from IngramSpark reviewed
- You and our team review and approve
- Any needed changes repeat the process
Step 9 – Printed Review Copies [Two Sisters Action]
We order physical copies so you can hold your book in your hands for the very first time. We also do a final real-world quality check before worldwide distribution begins.
- One paperback copy for you
- One copy for our team
- Delivered by UPS
- Final review and approval
Step 10 – Worldwide Distribution [Major Milestone]
Your book is sent to over 40,000 retail sites worldwide. This is what we have been working toward together.
- Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Walmart, and independent bookstores
- Apple Books and libraries worldwide
- 40,000 or more retail sites globally
Step 11 – Your Book Is Published! [Major Milestone]
You publish. You promote. You profit. All your personal book orders for the life of your book are made through us at manufacturing cost, so you keep the difference when you sell at retail price.
- Order books at manufacturing cost
- Sell at retail price and keep the difference
- Earn royalties through online sales
- Royalties paid quarterly, with your first payment 90 days from publication date
Congratulations. You are officially a published author with worldwide distribution. Together, we turned your story into a legacy that will inspire the world.
Let Us Tell Your Story
Are you ready to write your book? Talk to us and let us help you through the process to publish your book.
Understanding the Publishing World
What Working With Us Really Feels Like
You will always know where you are.
We do not leave authors in the dark. You will know exactly what step you are on, what comes next, and what we need from you. No guessing. No waiting by the phone.
We will be honest with you.
We have been doing this long enough to know what a book needs, and we will tell you the truth even when it is hard to hear. That honesty is how we help you make something great.
Your voice stays yours.
We are here to amplify what you already have, not to replace it. Every creative decision stays with you. This is your book, your story, and your legacy. We are just honored to help you bring it to life.